Big changes may be coming to federal wetlands regulations after the Trump Administration rescinded the Obama-era Clean Water Rule.
A Trump executive order includes a paragraph that could trigger sweeping changes in the way wetlands will be regulated at the federal level, a California attorney told GlobeSt. Federal agencies are supposed to now interpret the phrase “navigable waters” consistent with the dictionary definition that are “relatively permanent, standing, or continuously flowing bodies of water.”
Compared to prior iterations of the wetland regulations, this view reflects a significant restraint on federal wetlands permitting authority. The new interpretation is likely to lead to more litigation over what constitutes “wetlands” in the federal regulatory scheme.
Even if the Trump Administration successfully redefines the scope of federal wetlands permitting authority, it’s likely that some states would move to reinstate tougher wetlands regulations. California, for instance, would be expected to implement new wetland regulations will create a permitting mechanism very similar to the previous federal regime.
Related Stories
Reconstruction & Renovation | Dec 21, 2017
Interactive map includes detailed information on historic New York City buildings
The New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission launched a new, enhanced version of its interactive map, Discover NYC Landmarks.
Codes and Standards | Dec 20, 2017
Moody’s says cities may face credit downgrades if they don’t address climate risks
Credit ratings giant will ask what communities are doing to mitigate risk exposure.
Codes and Standards | Dec 18, 2017
Schools with optimal indoor environments boost student performance and energy efficiency
World Green Building Council report confirms that lighting, indoor air quality, thermal comfort and acoustics impact learning.
Codes and Standards | Dec 14, 2017
Mayors sign Chicago Climate Charter; will strive to meet Paris accord goals
Pledge to push for more local authority to reduce emissions.
Codes and Standards | Dec 13, 2017
New report examines ongoing costs of green infrastructure options
The report compares solutions to reduce stormwater.
Codes and Standards | Dec 12, 2017
Total cost of structural fires in U.S. reached $328.5 billion in 2014
Costs associated with losses was $55.4 billion.
Codes and Standards | Dec 11, 2017
Steel-timber composite system proposed for mid- and high-rise buildings
Structural steel columns and beams support a cross-laminated timber floor system.
Codes and Standards | Dec 7, 2017
Many coastal states performing poorly to protect beaches, coastlines
The most vulnerable regions fare the worst in new study.
Codes and Standards | Dec 6, 2017
2017 wildfires highlight gaps in California’s approach to fire safety in urbanized areas
Better hazard mapping and retrofit programs could help.
Codes and Standards | Dec 5, 2017
Guide for understanding medical monitoring requirement of OSHA silica standard released
Center for Construction Research and Training gives advice on new regulation.
